How to install a gas or electric stove
Installing a gas or electric stove, also known as a range, on your own may seem complicated at first, but the appliance can be set up at home with the right tools and precautions. Whether you are replacing an old electric range, remodeling or installing a gas range for the first time, this step-by-step guide can walk you through the general process.
Get an overview of how to install gas and electric ranges below. Be sure to refer to the installation guide for your specific model before installing as instructions may vary.
When handling gas and electric stoves, it is strongly recommended to have another person to help move the appliance. For questions or concerns with gas connections or electrical wiring, consult a professional for assistance.
Take your measurements
The first step to installing either a gas or electric slide-in or freestanding range is to measure the dimensions of the appliance and your cutout space.
Determine the depth, width and height to ensure your appliance fits in its desired location.
For more information and best practices on measuring stove dimensions, refer to this in-depth sizing guide.
Be mindful of the different sizes and placement of slide-in vs. freestanding ranges during your installation process.
Installing slide-in ranges
Slide-in ranges are designed to sit nearly flush with countertops for a seamless, precision fit. While these stoves are typically installed between cabinets or in kitchen islands, select slide-in ranges, like this Whirlpool® 7-in-1 Air Fry Oven, has finished sides and can be installed anywhere in your kitchen. Generally, slide-in ranges lack a backguard and the controls are located on the front or top of the range.
Explore slide-in ranges from Whirlpool.
Installing freestanding ranges
Freestanding ranges feature an integrated backguard to protect your wall from splashes, making it ideal for flexible placement with no need for a separate backsplash. Freestanding ranges may be placed standalone or between countertops.
Explore freestanding ranges from Whirlpool.
Installing a gas range: step-by-step instructions
Installing a gas range is a two-person job that can be accomplished with a few tools, precautions and your installation instructions. Use this eight-step guide as a general overview. From start to finish, account for roughly four to six hours for a gas range installation.
Be mindful to refer to your appliance installation guide for specific instructions. If a gas line needs to be installed, consult a professional for assistance.
Browse the different types of gas stoves from Whirlpool.
What you’ll need to install a gas range
Supplies
Gas range flex connector (drying gas connector)
Teflon pipe-joint tape
½ inch by ½ inch street elbow (pipe fitting)
Gas leak detector
Tools
Adjustable wrench
Step 1: Obtain the correct gas connector
If you are replacing an older gas stove, make sure to use a new gas range flex connector for installation to help prevent gas leaks.
Your installation guide will indicate the gas connector type needed for either “range” or “dryer.”
These connectors function the same, but the end fittings must match your appliance for proper stove installation.
Make sure the connector is long enough for leeway to connect the stove to the gas valve.
Typically, these connectors are roughly ½ inch in diameter. Refer to your owner’s manual for the specific type of gas connector you will need.
Shop gas range flex connectors from Whirlpool.
Step 2: Turn off the gas valve
Locate the gas valve and make sure it is turned off.
Generally, the shut-off valve needs to be slightly turned until it forms a 90 degree angle with the pipe itself.
If you are replacing an existing gas stove, carefully disconnect the appliance after the gas has been turned off.
For shut-off valve installation or concerns about your gas connection, consult a professional for assistance.
Step 3: Wrap threads with Teflon® tape
Using Teflon® tape, wrap the gas valve threads for proper sealant and a secure fit.
Make sure to only use Teflon® tape as this is designed specifically for gas connections to meet industry-wide standards.
Wrap the threads twice in a clockwise manner.
Note: Do not use Teflon® tape to wrap LP gas piping or tubings. Refer to your installation guide and consult a professional if you are unsure or have questions.
Step 4: Attach the gas connector
After the threads have been wrapped, you may attach the gas connector to the gas line.
Remove the end cap on the connector fitting.
Wrap the end with Teflon tape to prevent gas leaks.
Carefully screw the connector into the gas line.
Be mindful to avoid kinks in the gas connector and do not force the connector into the gas line.
Step 5: Attach the street elbow
After the gas connector is secured to the gas line, you may attach the street elbow to the gas port on your range.
Screw the street elbow into the range’s gas port.
Secure the other end of the street elbow to the free end of the gas connector.
Use yellow Teflon tape to wrap the fittings, but be careful to not overtighten.
Step 6: Tighten the gas connector nuts
On each end of the gas connector, tighten the nuts to the connector fittings.
Be mindful to hold the tube straight during this process.
Refrain from wrapping the threads with yellow Teflon tape during this step.
Step 7: Turn on the gas and check for leaks
As a precaution, it is strongly recommended to consult a professional to inspect the connection for gas leaks.
For self-detection, turn the gas valve back on.
Carefully spray the connector joint with a gas leak detector.
If bubbles form, turn off the gas and contact a professional immediately.
Tip:
If you do not have a gas leak detector handy, warm water mixed with liquid soap may be used as a substitute to detect gas leaks.
Step 8: Slide gas stove into place and secure mounting plate
After you have connected the gas and checked for leaks, simply push your stove into place with two people.
Make sure your range is level with the floor and properly aligned, depending on a slide-in vs. freestanding appliance.
Secure the anti-tip bracket, if necessary. Refer to your installation guide for more specific instructions.
Adjust leveling feet as needed.
Dealing with gas may pose a risk. As a precaution, consult a professional for any questions or concerns regarding your gas line connection or stove installation.
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Explore Whirlpool® Gas Ranges
Explore the collection of slide-in and freestanding gas ranges from Whirlpool.
Installing an electric range: step-by-step instructions
Installing an electric range can be accomplished with this seven-step guide, a few tools and another person. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions, and contact a professional electrician for required electrical circuits and installation. This process can take up to two hours from start to finish.
Browse the different types of electric stoves from Whirlpool.
What you’ll need to install an electric range
Supplies
3-prong electric range power cord, refer to owner’s manual for requirements
4-prong electric range power cord, refer to owner’s manual for requirements
Tools
Screwdriver
Step 1: Check your circuit voltage
Installing an electric range usually requires a 250-volt circuit, at minimum, and a receptacle with 40-50 amps.
If you are replacing an existing electric stove, the connections may already meet these requirements.
If a 250-volt circuit is not present, consult a licensed electrician for professional installation.
Step 2: Know your power cords
250-volt power cords come in 3-wire and 4-wire configurations that connect to the back of your electric stove.
Both 3 and 4-wire cords have one hot black conductor, one hot red conductor and a neutral white conductor used as the ground link.
4-wire cords also contain a green grounded conductor.
Shop 3-prong and 4-prong power cords from Whirlpool.
Step 3: Check the required connections in your electric range
Refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions on the required power circuits for your range. Newer electric ranges will typically have 4-wire connections.
Remove the wire connection cover plate from the back of your range with a screwdriver.
Check the wiring configuration and ground conductor screws for either 3-wire or 4-wire placement.
Consult a licensed electrician to alter the grounding connections in accordance with the required wiring, if necessary.
Step 4: Connect power cord to the electric range
Depending on your range’s connections of either 3-wire or 4-wire configurations, connect the wiring to its matching color.
For 3-wired, make sure the white grounded wire is connected to the center terminal, with the red and black wires on either side, matching the terminal configurations.
For 4-wired, connect the green wire to the green grounding connector and match the remaining wires with their appropriate terminals.
Securely fasten the wires and replace the wire connection cover plate.
Always refer to your installation manual for specific instructions and wiring configurations.
Step 5: Plug in your electric range
After the power cord is connected to your range, turn off the main power circuit to the appliance. Then, simply plug in your range to either the 3-prong or 4-prong electrical outlet.
Connect the power cord to the receptacle.
Turn your main power circuit back on.
Step 6: Slide electric range into place
After you have plugged in your range and turned the power back on, carefully slide the range into place with a friend. Be mindful of proper alignment for slide-in vs. freestanding ranges.
Make sure the appliance is level with the floor and aligned with countertops, if any.
Adjust the leveling legs as needed.
Step 7: Secure mounting plate, if necessary
If included with your appliance, secure the range to the wall with a bracket to prevent tipping.
Refer to your owner’s manual for more information.
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Explore Whirlpool® Electric Ranges
Browse the collection of electric ranges from Whirlpool.
Kitchen range installation FAQs
For common questions and best practices on installing gas and electric stoves from Whirlpool, refer to the FAQs below.
Can I install a gas or electric range myself?
The process of installing a gas or electric range requires at least two people due to the large size and bulkiness of most stoves. This helps avoid damage and advocates a smooth installation process.
Following your appliance’s installation guide for specific instructions will allow you to conveniently install a gas or electric range yourself.
Can I change my electric stove to gas?
If your kitchen has an existing gas connection conveniently near your electric stove, transitioning to gas can be as simple as connecting to the gas line.
However, if a gas connection is not present, a professional will need to be consulted to properly install a gas line for your range. Learn more about what to consider when converting from a gas to electric stove.
Do you need a special outlet for an electric stove?
Electric stoves generate more power and typically operate at 250 volts, as opposed to standard 120 volts. Therefore, a 250-volt, 40-50 amp receptacle is generally required to plug in an electric stove with either a 3-prong or 4-prong outlet.
Full installation instructions typically have a chart to determine what is needed based on the total wattage of your model.
Learn more about Whirlpool® Ranges
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